Possible Norovirus At Seattle Restaurant Sickens 43 People

SEATTLE, WA — At least 43 people were sickened with a norovirus-like illness linked to Brave Horse Tavern in Seattle's South Lake Union Neighborhood, health officials announced Wednesday. According to King County Public Health, 30 people from 5 groups reported sicknesses after eating and drinking at the restaurant between Nov. 23 and 24.

In addition to the customers, Public Health said 11 employees had symptoms consistent with norovirus, and two employees said people they lived with had symptoms as early at Nov. 20

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can easily spread between people. Symptoms can include sudden nausea, dehydration, vomiting, body aches, fever, and cramps. In rare cases, more serious complications can occur. No hospitalizations have been linked to the outbreak.

Public Health investigators visited the restaurant on Nov. 27, and the restaurant closed for cleaning and disinfection. Foods processed before the disinfection were thrown away, and the restaurant reopened Nov. 29. The restaurant also cleaned a neighboring restaurant which shares a freezer with Brave Horse Tavern.

According to Public Health, investigators reminded restaurant management that staff members who are sick are not allowed to return to work until 48 hours pass without symptoms.